Lochlea expands global footprint with SipWell Brands as exclusive travel retail distributor

Scottish distillery Lochlea has appointed SipWell Brands as its exclusive global travel retail distributor, with the agreement taking effect immediately.

The collaboration features the launch of Lochlea Roaming Barley, the brand’s travel retail-exclusive single malt, as part of its strategic expansion.

The Ayrshire-based Lochlea distillery is set on land once farmed by renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns. Originally a dairy farm, the property transitioned to barley cultivation in 2015 under Neil and Jen McGeoch, with the distillery established in 2017 and its first cask filled in 2018.

The land, Burns’ home and workplace from 1777 to 1784, now features its own water source and over 50 acres of barley fields.

Lochlea’s whiskies are characterised by their signature notes of juicy orchard fruits, biscuit and nutty, cereal-rich flavours.

The partnership with SipWell Brands is set to drive Lochlea’s expansion and visibility in international markets.

Since its 2019 launch, the premium drinks specialist has built a diverse portfolio, representing brands such as Hine Cognac, Lind & Lime Gin, The Lost Explorer mezcal and tequilas, as well as Nc’nean, Stauning, Fable, Two Stacks and Kilchoman whiskies.

Lochlea’s travel retail-exclusive single malt, Roaming Barley, is matured in first-fill bourbon and oloroso sherry casks. Bottled at 46% ABV, it is non-chill filtered and free from added colour.

The expression is the latest addition to Lochlea’s whisky line-up, complementing Our Barley, which is matured in a mix of first-fill bourbon, oloroso sherry and STR (shaved, toasted and re-charred) casks.

Another stand-out offering from the distillery is its seasonal series, featuring four expressions that capture the essence of the farm’s agricultural cycle. The Sowing Edition symbolises spring’s barley planting; the Harvest Edition represents the Ayrshire summer harvest; the Fallow Edition marks autumn’s renewal; and the Ploughing Edition highlights their winter malt.

Lochlea also produces a 60% ABV cask strength bottling matured in a mix of PX (Pedro Ximenez), oloroso sherry and STR casks.

Last year, the distiller teamed up with Glasgow craft brewery Overtone to finish a single malt in stout beer casks.

Lochlea has recently appointed Jill Boyd, former Master Blender at Halewood Artisanal Spirits and Compass Box, as its Master Blender.

Lochlea Distillery Owner and Managing Director Neil McGeoch said: “Our core expression has attracted considerable acclaim for its very distinct flavour profile that sets Lochlea apart from what many expect from a Lowland whisky.

“We are continuing to innovate and are now building a really interesting wider range of ongoing expressions based around our spirit’s unique DNA that adds real depth to the brand for our customers. This is therefore the right time for us to work with the team at SipWell to build our profile and availability in the travel channel globally.”

SipWell Brands Co-Owner Andrew Torrance added: “Lochlea’s commitment to consistent and premium quality coupled with a genuine spirit of experimentation, makes them a very exciting prospect in today’s market.

“Their story is an extremely compelling one internationally as the Burns legend extends around the globe and when you see their seasonal expressions built around the farming cycle for example, you see real vision. It is much more than a great story however, as these whiskies are incredible.”